In an anti-illicit cigarette operation at Sha Tin today, Customs officers raided a residential unit suspected to be an illicit cigarette storehouse. About 350 000 sticks of suspected illicit cigarettes were seized with a total value of about $850,000 and a duty potential of about $650,000. A 52-year-old man was arrested.

Customs will continue to undertake stringent enforcement against illicit cigarette activities to protect government revenue.

Under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance, anyone involved in dealing with, possession of, selling or buying illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty is a fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illicit cigarette activities by calling the Customs' 24-hour hotline 2545 6182.